Engine control method and apparatus

The revolution time (C') of a crankshaft rotor is detected based on the time (A) during which the pick-up (104) passes along the rotor at fixed angle range which is set based on the top dead center of rotor. The ignition timing is controlled based on the engine load and speed detected using difference between resolving power and ratio (A/C'). An independent claim is also included for electronic spark timing controller.